On Tuesday, the 2024 Paris Olympics witnessed a challenging start for the United States in the 3x3 basketball format, with both the men's and women's teams enduring tough losses in their opening games.
Women’s Team Falters Despite Strong Start
The U.S. women's 3x3 team began their campaign with a promising lead against Germany, surging ahead 5-0 in the early moments of the game. However, the momentum shifted dramatically, and Germany clinched a 17-13 victory. Despite the defeat, individual performances stood out, with Dearica Hamby, a star player for the Los Angeles Sparks, stepping up after joining the team due to Cameron Brink's unfortunate torn ACL.
Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream and college basketball prospect Hailey Van Lith, along with Cierra Burdick, who plays for Valencia in Spain, were also key players on the court. Burdick expressed her disappointment succinctly: "I didn't think it was going to be that ugly." The team, although facing a setback, still carries the experience and talent that led them to gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup. This team's tenacity was previously proven with a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, with the roster then featuring Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsea Plum, and Jackie Young.
Men’s Team Overpowered by World No. 1 Serbia
On the men's side, the U.S. encountered Serbia, the world's top-ranked 3x3 team. Despite leading the game for much of the first half, the U.S. team succumbed to a strong Serbian comeback, culminating in a 22-14 loss. The Serbian team's prowess was evident, bolstered by their resume, including a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a tense 21-19 victory over the U.S. in the 2023 FIBA World Cup final.
The American roster featuring Jimmer Fredette, who brings six seasons of NBA experience, alongside Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, showcased glimpses of potential. After the match, Fredette maintained an optimistic outlook: "It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow." The U.S. men's team punched their ticket to Paris by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, indicating their capability to compete at the highest level despite the early setback.
Legacy and Ambitions in 5x5 Basketball
While the 3x3 teams navigate their paths in Paris, the U.S. continues to build on its formidable legacy in the 5x5 format. The U.S. women's 5x5 team remains an indomitable force, having not lost an Olympic game since 1992 and aiming for their eighth consecutive gold medal. The current squad boasts stars like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the legendary Diana Taurasi. Taurasi, competing in her sixth Olympic Games, exemplifies the longevity and excellence that the team strives for.
Similarly, the U.S. men's 5x5 basketball team is in pursuit of their fifth consecutive gold medal, a testament to their sustained dominance on the global stage.
As the competition unfolds, both 3x3 squads remain hopeful of turning the tide in their favor. With a mix of experience and youthful energy, the journey in Paris is far from over. Each game offers another opportunity to showcase resilience and skill, forging new chapters in the storied legacy of U.S. basketball at the Olympics.